Ds-Nicholas de Grandmaison 58 Nicholas De Grandmaison

Here we observe a pastel drawing depicting an older individual, presumably male, presented in a three-quarter profile view. The subjects face dominates the composition, rendered with a focus on capturing the textures of age and experience. Deep lines etch themselves around the eyes and mouth, suggesting a life marked by hardship or contemplation. The skin tone is muted, leaning towards earthy browns and grays, further emphasizing this sense of weathered resilience.
The individual’s hair is long, dark, and appears unkempt, falling loosely around his shoulders and partially obscuring the upper torso. A vibrant red shawl drapes across his body, providing a striking contrast to the subdued palette of his skin and clothing. The shawls folds are rendered with energetic strokes, adding dynamism to the otherwise solemn portrayal. A necklace of beads is visible at his throat, hinting at cultural or personal significance.
The artist employed a loose, expressive technique, utilizing broad pastel strokes that suggest movement and immediacy. There’s an intentional lack of precise detail; features are suggested rather than meticulously defined, contributing to a sense of intimacy and authenticity. The background is indistinct, allowing the viewers attention to remain firmly fixed on the subject.
The inscription at the bottom – Stolen Many Things, Aka-ka-moosaki Blood Indian (Cardston, Alberta) 1955 – provides crucial contextual information. It suggests that this is a portrait of an individual from the Blood tribe, and the name “Aka-ka-moosaki” likely represents his given name or a significant title. The phrase Stolen Many Things introduces a layer of complexity; it could allude to historical trauma, loss of land or culture, or personal hardship experienced by the subject.
The drawing’s overall effect is one of quiet dignity and profound sadness. It appears less as a celebratory portrait and more as an empathetic record of a person carrying a heavy burden – a poignant representation of resilience in the face of adversity, likely reflecting the historical context of Indigenous peoples in Canada during the mid-20th century.